Third sector calls for ‘meaningful’ engagement on public service reform

Ministers have so far failed to engage with the third sector on public service reform, the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) has warned.

It claims this risks “unnecessary barriers” to partnership working remaining in place despite the planned changes.

The SCVO is calling for “meaningful involvement” as ministers look to reshape public services, with an acknowledgement that many services are delivered by charities and voluntary organisations.

It comes as the body publishes its latest report tracking attitudes in the third sector, highlighting continuing concerns around funding and burdensome bureaucracy.

Chief executive Anna Fowlie said: “Scotland’s voluntary sector is crucial to delivering public services, supporting prevention, and strengthening communities. Yet our research continues to show that too many organisations still face unnecessary barriers to delivering for people and communities across Scotland.

“Time and again, the sector tells us of a funding landscape that isn’t fit for purpose, complex commissioning processes, and limited opportunities to influence the design of services they deliver.  

“That must change – and meaningful public service reform must offer that opportunity. That starts with meaningful involvement of the voluntary sector at large, something that has been lacking to date. We need to see clear plans for how organisations will be involved in shaping, delivering and evaluating reform, backed by transparent measures of progress.”

The Scottish Government is pushing ahead with its public service reform agenda in a bid to make services fit for the future and financially sustainable. It says the changes will “improve the delivery of public services and maximise the efficient use of public spending”.

But critics of the plans warn that it is being used as cover for cost-saving measures.

Last week, council umbrella body Cosla and three trade unions united in calling on ministers to avoid taking a “top down” approach.

The joint statement said reforms would “require detailed planning” – and urged ministers to match plans with cash.

The SCVO’s intervention has warned the third second cannot “take on more responsibility without addressing the funding, workforce and capacity needed to deliver it”.

It says ministers must ensure parity of esteem with the public sector; long-term funding; greater local flexibility and autonomy; and a stronger focus on prevention.